I just finished the book, Brown Girl Dreaming, by Jacqueline Woodson. The book is to be released later this month, but I received an advanced copy from some friends on Twitter.
This is an amazing book! The writing is absolutely beautiful, and knowing that it is a memoir makes it even more special.
Toward the end of the book, Jacqueline writes a list of "what I believe." I decided to use this as a mentor text for my slice this week. This is unpolished and is certainly a first draft, because I finished the book just 30 minutes ago.
What I Believe
I believe in the power of a smile, given in an unexpected moment.
I believe that everyone deserves to be happy.
I believe in the power of words, words that heal and give hope.
I believe in love at first sight and love that lasts forever.
I believe in marriage, a connection of hearts.
I believe in second chances.
I believe in mornings and starting over
each and every day.
What a wonderful recommendation for a WONDERFUL book...the top of my own summer reading!
ReplyDeleteI've been wanting to read it, ever since everyone started talking about it this summer. Not much longer now, I preordered it from my local indie bookstore. Love your list of What I Believe, especially mornings and starting over, each and every day and the power of words to heal and give hope. Wise words, my friend!
ReplyDeleteI was thinking about you yesterday at the grocery store. The milk was dated Aug. 31! At least it wasn't September yet
That is so funny because the last one I bought was September and I sighed! Thanks for remembering my first post!
DeleteAmen!
ReplyDeleteCan't wait for my book to arrive!
Thanks so much for sharing this, Leigh Anne!
I am counting the days until I get to read this book!!! Thanks for the post. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your I Believe list!!!
ReplyDeleteI think I just might need to order this one! "I believe in mornings and starting over
ReplyDeleteeach and every day." This is a great motto for the new school year! Happy teaching!
Wonderful post!
ReplyDeleteCan't wait for my copy! I just finished "Hush" today - eerily like the news. She is such a gifted author.
ReplyDeleteI've heard so much buzz about this book, I just can't wait to read it! Love your poem - it's beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThe line that stuck to me is the line I see many others commenting on - "I believe in mornings and starting over each and every day." I need that reminder right now. It's 3:52am right now and I'm up because I can't sleep. My daughter got very disappointing news about her swimming last night and I'm having a really tough time coming to terms with it. I'm really hoping that today is going to be a different day. If I don't believe that, it's going to be a long day! I can't wait to read the book :)
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